Symposium Will Offer Support to Male Caregivers

In 2007, more than 44.5 million Americans took care of an adult in their family. As our population ages, that number is sure to grow.

The typical American caregiver holds down a paid job while spending 20 hours a week providing care for a sick or disabled parent, grandparent, spouse, child or friend. The National Alliance for Caregiving estimates that men make up nearly 40 percent of family care providers, up from 19% in a 1996 study.

While male caretakers face many of the same challenges as their female counterparts–including depression, stress, exhaustion and reduced personal time–they approach their caregiving role differently.

Over the past year, the Greenwood Senior Center has been offering resources and support groups to support this “unpaid army.” Next week, on Thursday, March 25, they’ll host a symposium for male caregivers, Finding Strength While Caring for Others. The symposium will include a keynote speaker, Dr. John Gibson, and a panel of men who are or have been in a caregiver role.

The symposium is intended to not only give men much needed resources, but will also allow them an opportunity to make connections with other caregivers and lessen the feeling of isolation that often accompanies this role.

For further information or to reserve a space at the symposium, call (206) 297-0875 or check the Senior Center’s website.